so much tolerance, encouragement, loyalty, humour and inspiration here; and I've seen it in your work at Hollywood Jesus, too.

Well, I'm certainly honored to have been a part of that spirit, and to be perceived in that way, too. I honestly can think of only one instance over the years in which my sometimes outlandish ideas have been met with outright hostility; and in the company of fanatics (yes, fans), that's pretty remarkable -- something that truly distinguishes Tolkien's work above his peers. If only actual religion could be approached so peaceably...